Name: Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 57 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp cream of tartar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies — the name alone is enough to make your sweet tooth dance! These cookies are soft, cinnamon-sugar coated bites of heaven with a creamy cheesecake swirl tucked inside, all shaped like adorable donuts. I’m beyond thrilled to share this recipe with you, not just because it’s absolutely irresistible, but because it brings together three iconic desserts in one — churros, cheesecake, and donuts!

If you’re new here, welcome! I love turning everyday desserts into unforgettable creations, and this one is no exception. Subscribe to my email list so you never miss a treat like this — these Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies are a must-save for any dessert lover.

What Are Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies?

Let’s break it down: imagine the soft, chewy base of a sugar cookie infused with cinnamon and butter (hello, churro vibes!), swirled with a luscious cheesecake filling, and baked in a donut shape for that extra flair. You’re getting a cozy, nostalgic cinnamon sugar hug with a creamy surprise in every bite. These cookies are baked, not fried — but they taste indulgent enough to fool anyone into thinking otherwise!

Reasons You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

Three desserts in one! Churros, cheesecake, and donuts — what’s not to love?
They’re soft, chewy, and creamy with a hint of crunch from the cinnamon sugar coating.
No frying required, but still bursting with classic churro flavor.
Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or cozy nights in when only the best treat will do.
Aesthetically adorable! That donut shape makes these a conversation starter.

The Flavor Profile of Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

These cookies taste like pure comfort. The base is sweet, buttery, and infused with cinnamon, while the cheesecake center adds a rich, tangy contrast that keeps you coming back for more. The outer sugar coating gives them a satisfying texture and nostalgic churro vibe. Basically: think snickerdoodle meets New York cheesecake, with a donut twist!

Health(ier) Treat Benefits — Believe It!

Baked, not fried – less mess, less oil, less guilt!
Made with pantry staples – no fancy ingredients required.
Easily adaptable for dietary needs — you can go gluten-free or even try dairy-free swaps (more on that below!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the cookie dough:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp cream of tartar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt

For the cheesecake filling:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the cinnamon sugar coating:
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon

Tools You’ll Need

Donut-shaped cookie cutter or silicone donut pan
Hand or stand mixer
Mixing bowls
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Cooling rack

Optional Additions & Ingredient Swaps

Add a touch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for a deeper spice flavor.
Swap the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free option.
Use gluten-free flour blend if you’re baking for someone with sensitivities.
Add mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough if you want extra texture and flavor.

How to Make Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

Step 1: Make the cheesecake filling
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag or zip-top bag. Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes so it’s firm and easy to pipe.

Step 2: Prepare the cookie dough
Cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Beat in the eggs one at a time, then the vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until a dough forms.

Step 3: Shape the cookies
Roll about 2 tablespoons of dough into a ball, then shape into a donut ring (either by hand or using a donut mold). Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pipe a small amount of the cheesecake filling into the center groove of each ring.

Step 4: Bake
Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, or until just golden at the edges. Don’t overbake — you want them soft!

Step 5: Cinnamon sugar coating
While the cookies are still warm, gently toss or brush them with the cinnamon sugar mix. Let them cool on a wire rack.

What to Serve with Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

Hot chocolate or café con leche – for cozy pairing vibes!
Fresh berries to balance the richness.
Vanilla bean ice cream if you want to go full dessert bar.
Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for a dramatic finish!

Tips for Perfect Donut Cookies

Chill the cheesecake filling! This helps prevent it from oozing during baking.
Don’t skip the cream of tartar. It gives the cookies that subtle tang and chewiness!
Use a silicone donut mold for the easiest shaping process (no cookie cutter gymnastics needed!).
Toss in cinnamon sugar while warm so it sticks like magic.

How to Store Your Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Keep in the fridge (especially in warmer weather) for up to a week.
Freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy, just thaw at room temp and refresh with a quick zap in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without a donut mold?
Yes! Just roll the dough into a ball and poke a hole through the center with your finger, then shape into a ring. Rustic is beautiful!

Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely — shape the cookies, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a bag or container. Bake straight from frozen (just add 2–3 minutes to the bake time).

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, and you probably should! These go FAST.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Sure! Try cinnamon, honey, or even pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.

Conclusion

These Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies are anything but boring!! They’re a triple-threat dessert that’s equal parts fun, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a holiday table or just a Tuesday treat, this recipe brings the wow factor without any complicated steps. I promised you versatile, and here’s proof!

If you try them, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a review below, and don’t forget to tag me on Pinterest with your creations — I’m kicking myself for not having shot it in motion because these cookies twinkle in cinnamon sugar under the light!

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Calories: 210
Fat: 11g
Saturated fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Sugar: 16g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 0.5g